What do mastiffs look like

Mastiffs tend to be "gassy" dogs, which bothers some people. They also snore, drool, and slobber — big time! Obviously this is not the breed for people who need a tidy household. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. Without careful socialization, a Mastiff may be suspicious of everyone.

This can lead to either aggression or shyness, and both attitudes are dangerous in a giant breed. Fearful Mastiffs can bite defensively if they feel cornered. And it's no fun trying to drag a huge frightened dog along by the leash in public. Read more about Old English Mastiff Training. The truth is that the Old English Mastiff is probably "too much dog" for the average household.

An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. Dog training videos.

Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The dogs were found in Britain at the time that the Romans invaded the island; they may have been brought there by Phoenician traders as early as the 6th century BC. The Romans employed the dogs as guardians for sheep and bodyguards for people.

Today, the dog is well established in England, Canada and America. Although the dog's talents include guarding, police work, and military work as well as search and rescues, many of today's mastiffs consider their mission in life to be a loving companion to their human packs.

The noblest of the family, he stands alone, and all others sink before him. Select Your Region. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Instagram Youtube.

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Republic of Singapore English. South Africa. Sweden - Sverige. Switzerland Suisse. Puppies are loads of fun, but they require a lot of time and effort before they grow up to become the dog of your dreams. An adult Mastiff may already have some training and will probably be less active, destructive and demanding than a puppy.

If you are interested in acquiring an older dog through breeders, ask them about purchasing a retired show dog or if they know of an adult dog who needs a new home. If you want to adopt a dog, read the advice below on how to do that. There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization.

Here is how to get started. Sites like Petfinder. The site allows you to be very specific in your requests housetraining status, for example or very general all the Mastiffs available on Petfinder across the country. Social media is another great way to find a dog. Post on your Facebook page that you are looking for a specific breed so that your entire community can be your eyes and ears. Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Mastiff.

That includes vets, dog walkers, and groomers. When someone has to make the tough decision to give up a dog, that person will often ask her own trusted network for recommendations. Networking can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family.

Most people who love Mastiffs love all Mastiffs. You can also search online for other Mastiff rescues in your area. The great thing about breed rescue groups is that they tend to be very upfront about any health conditions the dogs may have and are a valuable resource for advice. They also often offer fostering opportunities so, with training, you could bring a Mastiff home with you to see what the experience is like.

You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include:. Wherever you acquire your Mastiff, make sure you have a good contract with the seller, shelter or rescue group that spells out responsibilities on both sides.

Petfinder offers an Adopters Bill of Rights that helps you understand what you can consider normal and appropriate when you get a dog from a shelter. Puppy or adult, take your Mastiff to your veterinarian soon after adoption. Your veterinarian will be able to spot problems, and will work with you to set up a preventive regimen that will help you avoid many health issue. Bartonella is a type bacteria that can be transmitted to cats, dogs and humans from exposure to infected fleas and….

Want to give your pup yummy, low-calorie treats? Not sure about food puzzles? Our veterinarian reveals why the payoff for your pet is well worth any extra work. The friendly and inquisitive LaPerm has an easy-care coat that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Check out our collection of more than videos about pet training, animal behavior, dog and cat breeds and more.

Wonder which dog or cat best fits your lifestyle? Our new tool will narrow down more than breeds for you. If the video doesn't start playing momentarily, please install the latest version of Flash. Ron Willbie, Animal Photography. Sally Anne Thompson, Animal Photography. Karin Newstrom, Animal Photography. Mary Bloom. Breed Group: Working Height: Breed Characteristics Adaptability How easily a dog deals with change.

Tendency to enjoy or tolerate other dogs. Amount and frequency of dog hair shedding. Amount of warmth or friendliness displayed. Level of daily activity needed. Preferred amount of interaction with other pets and humans. Factors such as dog size and his tendency to make noise. Amount of bathing, brushing, even professional grooming needed.

Tendency to be welcoming to new people. Breed's level of vocalization. Level of health issues a breed tends to have. A dog's inclination to be protective of his home, yard or even car. Tendency toward a tolerance for cats and a lower prey drive. A dog's thinking and problem-solving ability not trainability.

Level of ease in learning something new and a willingness to try new things. Dogs that tend to be more sturdy, playful and easygoing around children and more tolerant of children's behavior. How lighthearted and spirited a dog tends to be. A breed that is likely to alert you to the presence of strangers.

Adaptability How easily a dog deals with change. Did You Know? The History of Mastiffs The ancestors of the Mastiff probably originated in the mountains of Central Asia several thousand years ago. Mastiff Temperament and Personality The calm and gentle Mastiff looks dignified at first glance, but beneath that noble expression lies a strong sense of humor just waiting to come out.

What You Need to Know About Mastiff Health All dogs have the potential to develop genetic health problems, just as all people have the potential to inherit a particular disease. Finding a Mastiff Whether you want to go with a breeder or get your dog from a shelter or rescue, here are some things to keep in mind. Choosing a Mastiff Breeder Finding a good breeder is a great way to find the right puppy. Adopting a Dog From a Mastiff Rescue or Shelter There are many great options available if you want to adopt a dog from an animal shelter or breed rescue organization.

Use the Web Sites like Petfinder. Reach Out to Local Experts Start talking with all the pet pros in your area about your desire for a Mastiff.

Talk to Breed Rescue Networking can help you find a dog that may be the perfect companion for your family. Key Questions to Ask You now know the things to discuss with a breeder, but there are also questions you should discuss with shelter or rescue group staff or volunteers before you bring home a pup. These include: What is his energy level?

How is he around other animals? How does he respond to shelter workers, visitors, and children? What is his personality like? What is his age? Is he housetrained? Has he ever bitten or hurt anyone that they know of?

Are there any known health issues? Join the Conversation Like this article? Have a point of view to share? Let us know!